WRC, World RX and fans mourn death of Ken Block
3rd January 2023The World Rally Championship and World Rallycross Championship both mourn their former competitor, Ken Block, after news of his passing.
On Tuesday morning, motorsport fans woke up to the tragic news that Ken Block passed away following a tragic snowmobile accident in Utah on January 2, 2023.
According to Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office, on Facebook, Block was reportedly riding a snowmobile at 2pm, on a steep slope in Utah when the vehicle ‘upended and landed on top of him.’ As a result, Block was declared deceased at the scene as a result of his injuries.
As such, two sports – amongst other tributes to the rally driver – are mourning the death of one of their competitors.
Block is survived by his wife Lucy and his three children.
WRC
Following the tragic news, the WRC stated on Twitter:
“The #WRC family extends its sympathies to the family and friends of motorsport icon Ken Block.”
Block got a taste of rally driving in 2005, where he raced a Subaru in the USA during the Rally America series. After a handful of cameo appearances in the WRC, debuting at the 2007 Corona Rally Mexico, the American driver managed to sign a contract with Ford to drive for the Monster World Rally Team in 2010.
In their post, the sport continued:
“A true visionary with a passion for all things extreme, the 55-year-old lived a dream that so many people across the world can only aspire to. In doing so, he inspired millions to follow their passions for motorsport.”
Former WRC Hyundai driver, Oliver Solberg – who is set to race in the WRC2 series this season – managed to say farewell in the WRC’s post. He said:
“My hero, my friend. You were a true inspiration and I will be forever grateful for the opportunities and help you gave me. All my thoughts are with the family.”
Solberg once played a part in Block’s Gymkhana series as he looped around a small pool – surrounded by ice – in Gymkhana 10’s Sweden section, alongside Block.
Ken Block (USA) is seen after engine over heating in special stage nr. 3 – El Chocolate 1 during the World Rally Championship Mexico in Leon, Mexico on March 13, 2020 // Jaanus Ree / Red Bull Content Pool
World RX
While Block’s career was kickstarted in Rally America before a move into the WRC, Block also ventured into the World Rallycross Championship during his career in motorsports.
On his Debut in Hell RX 2014, in Hoonigan Racing Division’s Ford Fiesta ST, the flamboyant driver worked his way up to third-place in the final heat behind winner Reinis Nitiss and Petter Solberg (P2).
The Rallycross driver only started two races that season and Block would have to wait until 2016 to earn his full-time seat in the sport.
In his first full outing, in 2016, with 10 race starts, the American secured one podium and secured 14th in the world standings. However, the following season was slightly better as he finished his final WRX season in ninth with his best race finish of the year: seventh.
Following the news, the World RX tweeted:
“The World RX family is saddened to learn of the passing of Ken Block.
“His loss leaves a huge hole in our sport, but his legacy as a visionary and inspiration to millions around the world will live long.
“We extend our sincere condolences to his wife Lucy and children. RIP Ken.”
Ken Block (USA) performs during FIA World Rally Championship 2018 in Salou, Spain on October 25, 2018 // Jaanus Ree / Red Bull Content Pool
Other tributes:
That’s all for the article; WRC, World RX and fans mourn death of Ken Block!
May Ken Block rest in peace, and our sincerest condolences go out to the Block family.
Read more WRC here:
- Ken Block, 55, dies in Snowmobile accident
- Pierre-Louis Loubet gets full-time WRC drive with Ford
- Ott Tanak signs with M-Sport Ford for WRC 2023
- WRC’s Central Europe Rally looks to be an interesting concept
- WRC reveal 2023 calendar; returning venues and a new innovation
- WRC Rally Japan: Neuville tops rally to hinder Toyota’s chances
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